Festival activities will feature unique birding, wildlife, nature, technology, cultural/historical and photography field trips. Additionally, there will be paddling adventures, a Pelagic birding boat trip, classroom and evening keynote presentations as well as an Art Competition and Show and Nature-based Exhibits. Nationally recognized naturalists, scientists, biologists, photographers and ornithologists will lead the Festival events and are available to participants for one-on-one discussions and instructions.

Promise in Brevard has partnered with the Brevard Nature Alliance during the Birding and Wildlife Festival and will host its inaugural "Scrub Jay 5K Run/Walk" and "Duathlon" on Sunday, January 27 at the Chain of Lakes in Titusville. The Scrub Jay 5K Run/Walk will begin at 7:30 a.m. and is open to everyone. The Duathlon starts at 8:15 a.m. and is a run/bike/run-sprint. All proceeds from the Scrub Jay 5K and the Duathlon will benefit Promise in Brevard, a non-profit organization dedicated to building a unique housing development for young adults with special needs.

Brevard County Parks and Recreation and the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands program are also offering special programs and activities during the 16th Annual Birding and Wildlife Festival. These special activities will spotlight community area parks and sanctuaries. Families and visitors are encouraged to participate in getting to know park locations for year-round fun and educational opportunities. A small sampling of these special Brevard County Parks and Recreation activities include: Celebrate Urban Birds, Sea Turtle Obstacle Course, Interpretive Canoe Trip, Nocturnal Nature Hike, Making Tracks: How to Read and Interpret Wildlife Signs.

The Brevard Zoo is also getting involved by hosting a Rendezvous With The Raptors Fundraiser to benefit the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival on Saturday, January 19 from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Zoo. The Raptor Project features 15 to 20 raptors from all over the world. Guests will learn from Jonathan Wood, a master falconer and wildlife rehabilitator. There'll be opportunities for close-up photos of hawks, eagles, falcons and owls and refreshing hors d'oeuvres and drinks during this exciting fundraiser.

The Festival is seeking local Sponsors, Donations, items for the Silent Auction (new or gently used) and Volunteers.Please contact Neta Harris at neta@brevardnaturealliance.org or 321-268-5224 to become involved with this outstanding community event.

There are an astonishing array of activities and presentations to experience during the 16th Annual Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. The Festival is recognized as the largest such event in the United States and it has become a premier national and international destination for birding, wildlife watching and nature-based activities.

Don't miss this perfect opportunity to enjoy Brevard County's natural beauty and wildlife at its best!